Armed Forces of the Philippines Visayas Command (VISCOM) chief Lieutenant General Fernando M. Reyeg PA made official visits to military installations across Negros Occidental on Friday, April 24, 2026, distributing gallantry awards and reinforcing the military’s commitment to regional peace and security initiatives.
The high-ranking military official traveled to the 94th Infantry Battalion (94IB) headquarters in Libas, Isabela, and the 79th Infantry Battalion (79IB) facility in Sagay City, both situated in Negros Occidental province. Lieutenant Colonel Israel O. Galorio, VISCOM’s Chief of Public Information Office, explained that these official engagements centered on acknowledging acts of bravery, strengthening military leadership, and maintaining operational momentum among units deployed in frontline areas.
Galorio noted that the visits highlighted the significance of hands-on leadership, operational evaluation, and preserving the pace of internal security operations throughout the Visayas archipelago.
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Military Personnel Honored with Bravery Decorations
The ceremony’s centerpiece involved recognizing distinguished members of the 79th Infantry Battalion with prestigious military honors. Ten decorations were presented: six Gold Cross Medals and four Silver Cross Medals, acknowledging extraordinary valor demonstrated during combat operations on April 19 in Toboso, Negros Occidental.
Military records indicate this engagement led to the elimination of prominent New People’s Army (NPA) figures and substantially diminished the insurgent group’s capacity to conduct terrorist activities in the locality. The decorations acknowledge the remarkable bravery exhibited by military personnel during this decisive confrontation.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines awards Gold Cross Medals to service members who demonstrate exceptional heroism when engaging hostile forces. Silver Cross Medals recognize comparable gallant actions of somewhat lesser magnitude while still representing outstanding valor in combat situations.
Strategic Focus on Field Leadership Development
During his address to assembled troops, Lieutenant General Reyeg highlighted the vital importance of leadership capabilities at the operational level, especially among junior officers and small unit commanders. “We must continuously capacitate and empower our small unit leaders, including our young Officers, to ensure they perform their duties effectively,” the VISCOM commander declared.
Reyeg outlined his expectations for sustained proactive approaches against developing security challenges. “I expect every unit to remain proactive in addressing emerging threats and operational challenges, exercising uncompromising commitment to mission accomplishment,” the general emphasized.
The commander’s focus on tactical leadership demonstrates the military’s dedication to cultivating capable field officers who can efficiently address security concerns within their designated operational territories.
Sustainable Peace-Building Through Community Partnership
Lieutenant General Reyeg stressed the necessity of converting military successes into enduring security improvements for civilian populations. “Our mission does not end with tactical success. We must sustain our efforts, strengthen our engagement with communities, and ensure that peace is felt and experienced by every Filipino in our area of responsibility,” the general elaborated.
This methodology represents the military’s holistic approach that extends beyond combat missions to encompass community development programs and peace-building activities. Reyeg emphasized that achieving permanent peace demands ongoing cooperation between armed forces and civilian populations.
VISCOM’s operational philosophy involves not only eliminating security threats but also tackling underlying conflict causes through community involvement and assistance for impacted families, according to official statements.
Balanced Approach to Armed Conflict Resolution
The VISCOM chief delivered a carefully crafted message to remaining armed group members, combining firm resolve with opportunities for peaceful settlement. “We remain committed to ending insurgency through lawful and decisive means, while keeping the doors of peace open for those who will choose to abandon violence,” Reyeg declared.
Nevertheless, the commander clearly indicated that persistent aggression would meet appropriate military response. “Continued hostility will be met with resolute action, as our troops will not be deterred in fulfilling their mandate to protect our people,” he cautioned.
Reyeg stressed that military duties encompass more than battlefield operations, including assistance for conflict-affected families. “Our responsibility extends beyond the battlefield; we must also ensure that affected families are engaged, supported, and given pathways toward healing and recovery,” he stated.
Direct Appeal for Communist Insurgent Surrender
Lieutenant General Reyeg issued a specific call to remaining Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) members throughout the Visayas region, urging them to surrender and resume peaceful civilian existence. “In the spirit of lasting peace, we call on those remaining members of the CPP-NPA in the Visayas region to lay down your arms and return to the folds of the law,” he announced.
The general highlighted available opportunities for former fighters to reconstruct their lives. “There is always an opportunity to start anew and live a peaceful life with your families,” Reyeg stated, emphasizing that continued armed resistance merely extends suffering for participants and their relatives.
This message forms part of the government’s comprehensive approach combining military action with peaceful reintegration opportunities for former insurgents entering mainstream society.
Enhanced Regional Security Operations Framework
The facility visits and award ceremonies constitute elements of VISCOM’s continuous efforts to sustain troop morale and operational capabilities among frontline personnel. Recognizing gallantry serves dual purposes: honoring individual bravery while reinforcing professional military service standards.
Both the 94th and 79th Infantry Battalions maintain essential security responsibilities across their operational zones in Negros Occidental province. Their ongoing missions contribute to the military’s persistent campaign against insurgent organizations active throughout the region.
Military reports indicate these concentrated operations have produced substantial security improvements across the Visayas region, with the April 19 Toboso engagement marking a significant tactical achievement.
The VISCOM commander’s personal visits reflect military leadership’s dedication to maintaining direct communication with frontline forces while ensuring appropriate recognition for service members’ contributions toward securing peace and stability for Filipino communities throughout the archipelago.
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